At a time when ski resorts are facing increased competition and recruitment challenges, attracting and retaining seasonal workers is becoming a priority for many alpine destinations.
From Bourg Saint Maurice/Les Arcs to Tignes, via Avoriaz and La Plagne, initiatives are multiplying to offer more attractive working and living conditions. Here's an overview of the measures recently introduced by these resorts to meet the expectations of seasonal workers.
Les Arcs: an ambitious housing project
Eric Chevalier, Director of the Bourg Saint Maurice Tourist Office/Les Arcsunderlines the importance of seasonal workers in the running of the resort. "They play a crucial role in the smooth running of the station".he points out. Faced with a growing demand for workers, the resort has taken the initiative to improve its reception and accommodation facilities.
READ MORE: Éric Chevalier: "Extending the summer season in the Les Arcs resorts".
A building dedicated to seasonal workers, comprising 60 flats and 100 beds, will open in 2026 at Arc 1800. This project is part of a long-term approach, with three other residences planned over the coming years. In addition to accommodation, services are also being put in place to improve the quality of life for seasonal workers, with the aim of building loyalty while ensuring an optimum welcome for visitors.
Tignes: towards year-round living
Frédéric Porte, director of the Tignestakes a different approach, integrating seasonal workers into a long-term vision: "We're not just talking about seasonal workers, we're talking about real local employees.
READ MORE: Frédéric Porte: "Tignes needs to be dynamic all year round
The resort is part of an ambitious project, "Tignes 2050", aimed at creating a year-round lifestyle, making the destination attractive to workers beyond the peak tourist periods. Tignes is focusing on strategic openings in both summer and winter, while strengthening its employer brand. This means continually improving working conditions and investing heavily in accommodation to retain employees.
Avoriaz: a proactive social policy
À AvoriazAccommodation for seasonal workers is also a key concern. Sébastien Mérignargues, the resort manager, recognises the difficulties associated with the high cost of accommodation at altitude. To alleviate this problem, the resort has introduced an innovative social policy by paying the rent and utilities for seasonal workers.
READ MORE: Sébastien Mérignargues: "Avoriaz remains unique in Europe".
"This social policy represents a cost for the tourist office and management - around 250,000 euros a year - but it makes work more accessible and retains the best people. Thanks to this initiative, the resort has been able to ensure almost full recruitment for the coming winter season.
La Plagne: innovating to recruit
Rémy Counil, Director of the Tourist Office of La Plagneexplains that the resort has had to innovate to overcome recruitment difficulties. A dedicated platform has been created to centralise job vacancies and present the different professions available, from skiman to waiter or barman.
READ MORE: Rémy Counil: "The success of La Plagne? Its snow, its activities and its villages".
The aim of this initiative is to meet the needs of retailers and professionals in the area, while highlighting the advantages of life in the mountains. "The friendliness of our villages and the unique mountain atmosphere continue to attract a huge number of seasonal workers.says a delighted Rémy Counil.